Will not forget the town that helped family, girl

August 18, 2012

As the famous old adage says, "never forget where you came from?" Some may think this is cliche, but for me it is anything but. To remember where you came from means to hark back to the family members, teachers, coaches, and community that have helped to make you the person you are today. To remember where you came from means that no matter where you go or what you accomplish in life, you always hold a special place in your heart for a small town in central Pennsylvania.

The question is not, "will I remember where I came from?" The question is, "how could I forget?" How could I forget a town that rallied behind one of their own to support a little girl whom they have never met? How could I forget the cards of encouragement, prayers, and well wishes from old friends? How could I forget the donations from friends, neighbors, and even people I don't know personally? How could I forget former classmates who banded together to run for our sweet angel? How could I forget the church that so graciously supported a former member? And how could I forget a family that put their lives on hold to help make ours a little easier?

I will never forget where I came from and vow to make sure that Gianna grows up knowing of the love and generosity that the people of Lewistown showed to her during her arduous journey. My wife Suzanne and I are forever grateful for all that so many of you have done for our family, we cannot thank you enough. We are humbled by your selflessness and honored to call Lewistown our home away from home.